NCJ Number
207812
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 28 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2004 Pages: 16-18,20,22,24
Date Published
October 2004
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article provides guidance in creating or improving a program of school resource officers (SRO's), who serve as liaisons between police departments and local schools.
Abstract
SRO programs provide ongoing police expertise in developing, implementing, and monitoring school security measures. One of the first questions that must be answered when planning a new SRO program is whether the school system will contract for personnel through one or more local agencies, form its own independent police force for the school system, or use a combination of these two arrangements. This decision should be based on local needs and the local political climate. The author advises, however, that it is generally best to establish an independent school-district police force in larger school systems and to use personnel from existing police agencies in smaller and mid-sized districts. In terms of the program's effectiveness, the structure is less important than commitment from local leaders; the selection of a highly qualified unit leader; the setting of clear goals for the unit; and the proper screening, selection, and training of SRO's. The ideal person to lead an SRO program has knowledge about how schools operate, is willing to guide police services that are significantly different from traditional police roles, has exceptional interpersonal communication skills, and can work with a wide range of professional disciplines. This article details SRO training and duties; suggests how to build rapport between the police services and the school community as well as relevant governmental agencies; emphasizes the importance of tactical planning with other police units to prepare for various school threat scenarios; and addresses legal issues.